With nearly two decades of service at Purdue University Global, Dr. Carol T. Edwards has built a reputation for being more than just an educator. She’s a mentor, motivator, and champion of student success. Currently serving as a Full-Time Faculty member, Dr. Edwards brings diverse experience and boundless enthusiasm to every class she teaches.

Her journey to academia is anything but linear. Before joining PG, Dr. Edwards wore many hats: Academic Advising Administrator, Communications & Wireless Specialist, Accountant, Notary Public, IT Support Staff, Mortgage Consultant, and even CEO and founder of a non-profit organization. With such a varied background, it’s no surprise that her areas of expertise span Education Technology, Curriculum Development, Academic Advising, Civic Services, and Student Engagement.

Dr. Edwards holds a PhD from Northcentral University, an MEd and BIT from American Intercontinental University, and an AAS from Essex County College. At PG, she teaches a wide range of courses, including IT104: Introduction to Cybersecurity, IN150: Foundations for Success in IT, CS114: Academic Strategies for the IT Professional, and IT400: Ethics in Cybersecurity, among others.

But what truly sets Dr. Edwards apart is her philosophy on Learning. “Being in the academic arena is more than a career. It’s a calling,” she says. Her deep love for teaching is grounded in her joy of watching students grow, learn, and reach their full potential. “There is a special kind of joy that comes from watching someone have that ‘aha’ moment.”

In her classroom, engagement and connection are key. Dr. Edwards uses creative techniques like “Creative Mind Sayings,” where students create weekly motivational quotes, which she proudly displays in-class announcements. She also celebrates milestones such as birthdays, anniversaries, and student achievements, creating a space where students feel seen and appreciated.

Interactive elements like team time, breakout rooms, and icebreaker quizzes foster collaboration, while tailored feedback and supplementary materials ensure each learner feels supported. One student says, “She remembers what it’s like to be in our shoes—working, caring for family, and going to school. Her energy, encouragement, and understanding made all the difference.”

Dr. Edwards’ excellence has not gone unnoticed. Her accolades include the 2022 Distinction Award, Outstanding Dedication to Students Award, Peer Reviewer Extraordinaire, and the Organization Builders Award.

Outside the classroom, she enjoys reading, gardening, counseling, and spending time with her family—pursuits that mirror her nurturing and thoughtful nature.

She says, “Learning is more than acquiring knowledge—it’s about connection, celebration, and growth. When we create spaces where people feel valued, inspired, and heard, we open the door for deep, transformative Learning.”

Dr. Carol T. Edwards is a shining example of how passion and purpose can shape students’ academic journeys and their lives as a whole.

Julie Dort

Mimi Gough